Fun Facts About the Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is one of the most striking buildings of the twentieth century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Behind that famous sail-shaped silhouette lies a story as dramatic as the structure itself.

Fascinating facts

• A global competition. In 1956, 233 designs were submitted; Danish architect Jorn Utzon won, earning the then-prize for his vision.
• Wildly over budget. Originally estimated at A$7 million and four years, it ultimately cost A$102 million and took 14 years, opening in 1973 with Queen Elizabeth II in attendance.
• Enormous scale. The building is roughly 183 metres long and 120 metres wide — large enough that eight Boeing 747s could sit wing to wing on the site.
• An economic icon. It draws millions of visitors a year, contributes around a billion dollars annually to the economy, and stages more than 40 performances a week.

See it from the water

The Opera House is best appreciated from Sydney Harbour. Swain Destinations arranges private harbour experiences, backstage tours and the city's finest hotels within tailor-made Australia journeys.